The Federal Government has launched an electronic visa (e-Visa) system to streamline Nigeria’s visa application and approval process, aiming to reduce delays and eliminate middlemen.
Announcing the initiative on Tuesday during a meeting on the Nigeria Visa Policy 2025 (NVP 2025), Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo stated that the reform is designed to enhance business opportunities, boost tourism, and improve Nigeria’s diplomatic relations.
“The proposed policy introduces a more efficient visa approval process, including the electronic visa as a separate channel for obtaining Nigerian visas,” the minister said.
He emphasized that under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, the government seeks to balance economic growth, tourism promotion, and national security.
E-Visa and Visa-On-Arrival (VOA) Enhancements
As part of the new system, travelers can apply online for short-stay visas and receive approvals within 24 to 48 hours. The approved e-visa will be sent directly via email, eliminating the need for physical visa stickers at airports.
During a meeting with the Director General of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), Princess Zahrah Mustapha Audu, Tunji-Ojo assured that the initiative would eliminate irregularities and ensure a seamless documentation process for travelers.
The new system does not replace the existing Visa-on-Arrival (VOA) policy but seeks to improve its efficiency while maintaining government oversight on inbound travelers.
“This upgrade builds upon the existing online approval system, streamlining the process so travelers can receive approvals in advance. It enhances Nigeria’s ability to manage and control visitor inflows while improving the business environment and attracting foreign investment,” a statement from PEBEC said.
Digital Reforms Extend to E-Passports
In addition to the e-visa system, the government has introduced a contactless passport renewal system for Nigerians abroad. Launched in Canada in November 2024 and the UK in February 2025, this initiative allows Nigerians to renew their passports online without visiting immigration offices. The rollout is expected to expand to the U.S., Italy, and France.
Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nanna Nandap, highlighted that the initiative aims to simplify the renewal process, reducing travel costs and waiting times. However, she clarified that the system applies strictly to renewals and does not cover new applications or minors.
The government has also approved a passport renewal processing facility in New York to address backlogs and improve accessibility. More passport front offices are planned for other locations in the U.S. and worldwide.
Strengthening Immigration and Border Control
In December, the government commissioned the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Center (BATTIC), a modern facility built by the NIS. The complex includes a data center, command and control center, visa approval center, ECOWAS card center, solar farm, and passport processing center.
President Tinubu has urged Nigerians to embrace technological advancements in immigration and travel, emphasizing that improved systems will facilitate smoother entry and exit processes.
These reforms align with the government’s efforts to enhance efficiency, strengthen security, and improve the overall experience for travelers and Nigerians abroad.
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